Vampire Diaries Season 4: 12 To-Die-For Bits From the First Two Episodes

The new season of The Vampire Diaries is almost upon us, and TVLine was lucky enough to screen the first two episodes of Season 4, which premieres Oct. 11 (The CW, 8/7c).

As Elena transitions into becoming a vampire, her emotions are heightened; the new installments might ratchet up yours, as well, as heartstrings are pulled and life remains dangerous in Mystic Falls. To give you a taste — no pun intended! — of what’s to come, here are 12 vaguely spoilery observations about the first two episodes: